Anodization and Titanium Surface Topography

Purpose The aims of this study was to explore the effect of anodization on titanium surface topography (roughness) using different alectrolyte separately at different voltages. Materials and methods Pure polished titanium discs were subjected to anodization, the anodization procedures were performed using two different electrolytes separately, 1 M H2SO4 or 0.05wt % HF in a beaker. A DC electrical power supply was used. Different voltages were used. Polished titanium surfaces were used as a control. Surface roughness was measured using profilometry. Topography was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results Surface roughness for anodization in HF electrolyte showed a steady increase in Ra value with each voltage increment to the maximum value of 110 V was observed. Highly significant differences were found between Ra values of titanium anodized at 110 V and the other groups (Pless than0.001). Interestingly, for anodization in H2SO4 electrolyte, the Ra value increased as the voltage value increased to reach its maximum value at 80 V, then declined at 110 V. It then increased again at 140 V but did not return to the peak value at 80 V. Conclusions This research showed that a slight difference in voltage have significant impact on titanium surface topography and roughness increased with increased anodic voltage.